Five people, including three children, were left drifting in choppy seas at Bass Point on Tuesday, after their yacht suffered a broken mast.
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Port Kembla water police and the Westpac Life Saver Helicopter were tasked to the scene around 12.30pm, responding to indications of a boat in distress.
Earlier reports that the vessel had overturned, or had collided with another boat, were found to be incorrect. Instead, emergency responders found the yacht with a broken mast and its sail dragging through the water.
Stephen Leahy, Westpac Helicopter CEO, said his crew had been undertaking pilot training in the area before being diverted to the incident by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.
"[The crew] located the yacht. Onboard were two adults and three children, who indicated they were safe, but it was obvious the yacht was in trouble," Mr Leahy said.
"The main sail was hanging overboard in the water, and the vessel couldn't be controlled or steered."
Mr Leahy said the helicopter stayed nearby until water police arrived.
The yacht has been towed to Kiama harbour.
